President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to move forward with urgency but with clear direction, as he marked the Chinese New Year and reflected on the symbolism of the Year of the Fire Horse.
In his message released Tuesday, Feb. 17, Marcos said progress should be driven not only by energy and momentum, but by discipline, hard work, and sound governance.
“I invite all Filipinos to move with purposeful haste—swift when necessary; measured when it matters most. Momentum can be energizing, but direction is what truly delivers results,” Marcos said in his message on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
He urged Filipinos to safeguard essential priorities, including fair opportunities and dependable public services, while strengthening productivity and building stronger value chains that support inclusive communities.
“Let us protect what is essential such as fair opportunity and reliable public services, while enhancing productivity, stronger value chains. and communities that never leave the vulnerable behind,” he added.
Marcos also described the season as a chance for renewal and intentional action, saying it offers a moment for Filipinos to align efforts at the personal, community, and national level toward sustained growth.
“It is a time when households, communities, and businesses set priorities, execute plans, and focus on what truly sustains them. Across generations, we have come to see prosperity as something we cultivate: built by everyday work, guided by discipline, and multiplied when it creates jobs and supports initiatives that hold our people together,” he said.
He noted that while the Horse and Fire symbolize movement and boldness, real advancement depends on practical foundations such as responsible households, productive industries, and reliable public service.
“The Horse is often read as a sign of movement, courage, and forward motion, while the Fire element suggests a spark that refuses to settle for the usual pace,” Marcos stated.
Marcos said the meaning of these symbols resonates with many Filipinos, but emphasized that national progress must be grounded in consistent work, careful decision-making, and government performance that supports long-term development.
He added that the country can only achieve lasting prosperity when citizens make wise choices in daily life, and when both government and industries maintain steady service and sound leadership that turns everyday effort into lasting results.
“If we keep our course firm and our standards high, we can shape a more prosperous, agile, and empowered bagong Pilipinas,” he went on.
